Organic Cotton For Your Family

Posted Jul 13, 2009 by nyfamily5 / comments 2 comments / Print / Font Size Decrease font size Increase font size

Cotton crops comprise less than 3% of the world's agriculture, but use 25% of the world's insecticides. Seven of the most common pesticides used on cotton are "known, probable, or likely" to be human carcinogens according to the EPA, and are also thought to cause, among other health risks, birth defects and nervous system disorders.

From growth through harvest, the process is monitored according to a set of Organic Growing Standards adopted by governmental bodies. Organic Cotton starts with an organic process by using seeds that have not been genetically modified or treated with pesticides. The soil has not had any chemicals use for at least three years and has been fertilized with natural organic matter or organic compost. By using natural and organic matter to fertilize we are creating a process of giving back to our environment and recycling natural and organic waste. The soil itself has become enriched with nutrients that allow the plants to resist bugs, weeds and disease.

The statistics of pesticide use on cotton are staggering. Cotton crops comprise less than 3% of the world's agriculture, but use 25% of the world's insecticides. It takes about one third of a pound of these chemicals to produce enough cotton for one t-shirt. Seven of the most common pesticides used on cotton are "known, probable, or likely" to be human carcinogens according to the EPA, and are also thought to cause, among other health risks, birth defects and nervous system disorders.

Organic Cotton producers use natural predators and other natural practices to control pests. Such as by using bugs that will prey on cotton eating bugs or replacing synthetic fertilizers with earth friendly natural and organic fertilizers such as chicken manure which supplies the nitrogen that cotton plants require.

The processing of Organic Cotton eliminates Chlorine, Dioxin, Formaldehyde, and heavy metals such as chrome, copper, and zinc. These chemicals are absorbed through the skin. Organic Processing uses natural ingredients such as oil.

Since organic cotton plants aren't bombarded with toxic chemicals they tend to produce longer fibers, which yield stronger yarn and more durable fabrics. Pesticide-free long cotton fiber also feels softer, more breathable and luxurious against the skin.

Organic Cotton has come a long way in the past years as we recognize the importance of an earth friendly environment and the impact on our health. There are numerous products available in Organic Cotton, such as clothing, bedding, towels and a wide variety of Earth Friendly Baby Items.

Have a happy and healthy home by using Earth Friendly Organic Cotton.

Ann Cohen is the founder of Our Earth Friendly Babies. Providing moms and families information and reviews on Earth Friendly Baby Products that are organic, natural and beneficial for you, your baby, your family and our environment.

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Comments

nyfamily5
nyfamily5 said... on July 27th, 2009 at 11:44 AM

Thanks, I'm a fellow tree hugger!!

batcanary
batcanary said... on July 16th, 2009 at 3:55 AM

Excellent article! I am a big tree hugger, and I fully recommend "going organic". For those people who can't afford or can't find organic cotton products, try to buy used clothes at a yard sale or resale store. Save money and reduce the need for more clothing to be produced!



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